Substitute Titles

DMV issues a substitute title when information on the previously issued title needs to be changed. DMV also
issues replacement titles if you do not wish to change any
information on the existing title certificate. Once a substitute title is issued, all prior titles are invalid.

Please note that if there is a lien on the vehicle, you will need to contact the lienholder to make any changes to the existing title record.

Requesting a substitute title to change name or change address MAY affect your Virginia driver license or identification Card.

Removing Deceased Owner(s)

If you are a joint owner with the right of survivorship, or a tenant by the entirety, and your co-owner is deceased, DMV will issue a
substitute title, in your name only, after you submit the following to DMV:

A certified or notarized death certificate

The existing title certificate
Note: If your existing title is lost, stolen, mutilated, or illegible, you must complete an "Application For Supplemental Lien, Replacement
Title, Transfer of Lien and Substitute Title" (VSA 66). You will not be required
to obtain a replacement title first; however, if your title is mutilated or illegible, you will be required to surrender it. If your title is lost or
stolen, DMV will process your substitute title without the current title.

Name Change

Complete an "Application For Supplemental Lien, Replacement Title, Transfer of Lien and Substitute
Title" (VSA 66). All owners must sign to give authorization.

Show legal documentation evidencing the name change (for example, marriage certificate - including same-sex marriage certificates, divorce decree, other court order or
corporation license).
NOTE: Civil union documents are not acceptable as evidence of a name change or as a secondary proof of
identification.

Lien Removal

To obtain a title upon removal of a lien:

Submit the title provided by the lienholder (or proof of lien release if DMV still has a lien on record).
Note: If your existing title is lost, stolen, mutilated, or illegible, you must complete an "Application For Supplemental Lien,
Replacement Title, Transfer of Lien and Substitute Title" (VSA 66). You will not be required
to obtain a replacement title first; however, if your title is mutilated or illegible, you will be required to surrender it. If your title is lost or
stolen, DMV will process your substitute title without the current title.